what is a maintenance mechanic?
Maintenance mechanics keep everything running by maintaining and repairing all kinds of systems. In this role, you'll take care of different pieces of equipment. While many of your tasks revolve around maintenance, you'll also need to know how to install systems.
The specific types of systems you work on depend on which industry you operate out of. If you work in the manufacturing industry, you'll need to keep CNC machines, industrial robots and other systems in good working order. When a machine abruptly malfunctions, your responsibility is to troubleshoot the problem and perform emergency repairs.
Whether you're running diagnostic tests or repairing a complex piece of machinery, you'll use a combination of hand and power tools. It's important that any work you do adheres to safety regulations and procedures. Would working as a maintenance mechanic suit your technical skills? Then read on to find out what competencies and qualifications you need to thrive in a maintenance mechanic role.
view jobs near youaverage maintenance mechanic salary
Would you like to know what a maintenance mechanic earns? Where the highest salaries are paid for a maintenance mechanic? Then check out this maintenance mechanic salary page and find out all about the salary of a maintenance mechanic in the USA.
types of maintenance mechanics
Maintenance mechanics often work in apartment buildings or factories. You'll be responsible for everything from electrical and carpentry systems to HVAC units and insulation. The industry you decide to operate out of determines where you'll work and what you'll work on. For example, maintenance mechanics in the aviation industry repair and service aircraft systems and components. These components include turbine engines, hydraulic systems, environmental systems, instrumentation and piston engines.
Companies hire maintenance mechanics in such fields as:
- electronics
- manufacturing
- energy
- construction
- aviation
You can effectively control where you'll work and the type of industry you'll operate out of. If you'd prefer a less complex job, consider a job as a maintenance mechanic in an apartment building. The type of work that occurs in the manufacturing, electronics, and aviation industries usually requires a considerable amount of training and education.
working as a maintenance mechanic
Maintenance mechanics complete a wide range of unique tasks throughout the day, which makes for a dynamic and ever-changing work environment. Find out what it's like to work as a maintenance mechanic.
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maintenance mechanic job description
Maintenance mechanics are responsible for doing everything from maintaining equipment to performing troubleshooting and emergency repairs. You'll also conduct preventive maintenance to ensure the job site doesn't experience significant downtime because of a mechanical failure. The most common job duties for maintenance mechanics include:
- diagnosing machine failures before providing necessary repairs
- installing various replacement parts
- adhering to a preventive maintenance schedule that includes servicing and testing different types of machinery
- assembling and installing new equipment
- implementing maintenance best practices and safety guidelines
- using a wide range of hand tools and power tools
- documenting maintenance through a computerized maintenance management system (CMMS)
Your job duties shouldn't change unless you land a job as a senior maintenance mechanic. In this scenario, you'll assign work to other maintenance mechanics and create detailed maintenance schedules. If you work in a large facility with many team members, expect to supervise new mechanics and administer their training.
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maintenance mechanic work environment
Working as a maintenance mechanic in the construction industry is much different from doing so in the aviation field. There are, however, some typical expectations you should have for your work environment. For example, maintenance mechanics usually stand for the majority of their shift.
You'll repair and maintain complex machinery that oftentimes consists of greasy parts. Minor workplace injuries, such as sprains, bruises and small cuts, occur regularly. If your job takes place in a harsher environment, expect to wear safety goggles, hard hats and other protective equipment. Even when maintenance mechanics aren't at work, they're often on call.
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who are your colleagues?
Most maintenance mechanics work with other technical professionals. For example, expect to work with maintenance technicians regardless of the type of industry you're in. While you're responsible for machine upkeep, maintenance technicians take care of maintaining the entire facility you work in. The specific people you work with depend on the industry you join. If you apply to a larger company, you'll likely work as part of a team that's overseen by a supervisor or general manager.
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work schedule
Maintenance mechanics typically have full-time, 40-hour workweeks. However, expect to work overtime depending on the scope of your work. It's also common for unexpected maintenance problems to occur that require more of your time and focus.
Even if your workweek is 40 hours, this doesn't mean that you'll have standard working hours. It's standard for maintenance mechanics to work shifts that range from six to 12 hours. These shifts take place at any time. For example, night shifts and early morning shifts are commonplace.
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job outlook for maintenance mechanic
Most types of maintenance mechanic jobs have a positive outlook. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the job outlook for machinery maintenance mechanics is 13% growth over the next decade. In comparison to all other professions, this growth rate is far faster than normal.
All types of companies require maintenance mechanics to ensure their machinery runs properly. Every manufacturer and apartment building needs a maintenance mechanic to fix issues as they arise and provide routine upkeep.
As a maintenance mechanic, you'll have access to career advancement opportunities. When you work as an entry-level mechanic, you'll complete minor maintenance tasks that don't require comprehensive skills or knowledge. Once you gain some experience, your tasks should include repair and maintenance work on all pieces of equipment in the building. People who stay in this position long enough often receive promotions to work as maintenance supervisors.
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benefits of working for randstad as a maintenance mechanic
Working through Randstad offers you a range of benefits:
- being paid weekly
- flexibility
- always a contact person you can fall back on and ask for help from
- many training opportunities
- a range of jobs in your area
Want a permanent contract? But you wonder why it would be interesting for you to work with a staffing company? A temporary job as a maintenance mechanic is often a stepping stone to an attractive permanent job. Every year, thousands of people earn a permanent contract with great employers thanks to a temporary job found through Randstad. What's more, many companies recruit their permanent employees through Randstad too!
maintenance mechanic skills and education
Have you made the decision to pursue a career as a maintenance mechanic? If so, the first step in this process involves earning a high school diploma or GED. Next, take some time to think about the type of work you enjoy doing. Maintenance mechanics have the opportunity to work in many different fields. If you've shown an interest in aviation or vehicles, enter a degree program that improves your mechanical skills in this niche.
Job requirements often vary from employer to employer. For example, some employers want maintenance mechanics to obtain a two-year associate degree in industrial mechanics before applying. Are you thinking of entering the auto industry? Earn a bachelor's degree in automotive technology to enhance your skill set and make your resume more appealing to potential employers.
The most effective way to land a job as a maintenance mechanic is to obtain on-the-job experience. Your skills invariably improve when you practice them on a daily basis. It's possible for employers to require an apprenticeship as well, which means working under the supervision of someone with more talent and experience.
To advance in your career, consider seeking more training and certifications. For example, the National Center for Construction Education & Research offers an Industrial Maintenance Mechanic certification. This certification program covers the concepts you need to know to safely install, repair and maintain more advanced machinery. Keep in mind that state licensing is often a prerequisite for maintenance mechanics who wish to work on plumbing or electrical systems. Many brands of machinery, appliances and vehicles have specialized training opportunities for the maintenance and repair of their products.
skills and competencies
Maintenance mechanics need extensive technical and problem-solving skills to garner success while on the job. Good maintenance mechanics know how to navigate multi-pronged issues and tackle them efficiently. This job requires identifying the source of mechanical breakdowns and malfunctions in hours.
You'll need to know how to use modern power tools and read schematics. Make sure you're able to follow instructions from a supervisor. All maintenance mechanics need to have a thorough understanding of the mechanical systems they're set to work on. Keep in mind that different companies and industries have different qualifications. If you're going to work with a building maintenance team, expect to obtain an HVAC certification before you land the job.
The physical requirements that maintenance mechanics adhere to are usually demanding. Along with spending long hours on your feet, you'll often get in uncomfortable positions and move heavy pieces of equipment. Even the tools maintenance mechanics use are typically heavy. Having steady hands is essential to avoid causing additional damage to sensitive components and machines.
Make sure you also have some basic computer skills. Even as a maintenance mechanic, using technology is an everyday occurrence. You'll send emails, make calls on a smartphone and input data into computer software programs. Many companies are currently using CMMS software to bolster efficiency. These systems recommend ways to improve efficiency, track performance and streamline workflows. It's highly recommended that you have knowledge of how to use this type of software.
FAQs about working as a maintenance mechanic
Here you will find answers to the most frequently asked questions about maintenance mechanics.
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what is the role of mechanical maintenance?
Maintenance mechanics troubleshoot, maintain and repair machinery. The types of machinery these mechanics work on include medical equipment, laboratory equipment and factory machines. Most of the job involves working with your hands.
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is maintenance a physical job?
You'll use your hands with tools, controls and other objects. Maintenance mechanics also stand for a lengthy amount of time during the average shift. Expect to routinely bend your body to get into uncomfortable positions depending on the machinery you're working on.
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how do maintenance mechanics and technicians differ?
Maintenance mechanics do more specialized work, while technicians focus on broader tasks. For example, a maintenance mechanic in the auto industry replaces brake pads and handles oil changes. Technicians typically diagnose problems and manage certain administrative tasks.
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what makes an effective maintenance person?
It's important that maintenance mechanics have knowledge of technical specifications for the systems they're working on. They also need to know about the latest safety requirements and the most basic operating principles.
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what is the typical day for a maintenance mechanic?
Maintenance mechanics take part in regular troubleshooting to determine the main source of an equipment malfunction. They often receive calls from other people in the building when a machine goes down and requires attention. When not working on a repair task, mechanics focus on maintaining systems to keep them in good condition.
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how do I find a job as a maintenance mechanic?
Applying for a maintenance mechanic job is easy: create a Randstad profile and search our maintenance mechanic jobs for vacancies in your area. Then simply send us your CV. If you do not have a resume, no worries. Just check out our resume builder. This state of the art tool will help you to create your own resume. Need help with your application? Check out all our job-hunting tips!
